The Controversial Rise of Narcos Hoodies and Escobar Streetwear

The Rise in Popularity of Narcos Hoodies

In recent years, hoodies and other apparel referencing the Netflix series Narcos have become increasingly popular. The show dramatizes the story of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar and the Medellín cartel's rise to power in the 1980s. While controversial, the series has garnered a cult following, inspiring a trend in narcos hoodies and other streetwear.

Narcos hoodies usually feature imagery related to Escobar and the Medellín cartel, such as the figure of Escobar, the phrase "Plata o Plomo" ("Silver or Lead"), and references to cocaine. Some hoodies incorporate Escobar's image into popular brand logos like Nike or Adidas. Others feature photos of the real Escobar or scenes from the show.

The Appeal of Narcos Hoodies

So why have narcos hoodies become so popular? Here are some of the main reasons driving the trend:

• The popularity of Narcos - As a hugely successful Netflix series, Narcos has brought the story of Pablo Escobar into mainstream pop culture. Fans want to show their appreciation for the show.
• Escobar's image - Pablo Escobar is an infamously interesting figure, known for his extravagant lifestyle. People are fascinated by the legend surrounding him.
• Streetwear aesthetic - Narcos hoodies fit with streetwear trends valuing urban, hip hop-influenced fashion. Wearing a narcos hoodie is a way to signal your fashion sense.
• Pop culture irony - For some, wearing a narcos hoodie is meant ironically, as a way of commenting on Escobar's contested legacy. It shows an appreciation for pop culture more than the real history.

Criticisms and Controversies

However, narcos hoodies and apparel have also received significant criticism from some quarters. Here are some of the main controversies surrounding the trend:

• Glorification of criminality - Narcos hoodies could be seen as thoughtlessly glorifying Escobar's violent crimes, dangerous drug trade, and reckless lifestyle.
• Pain for victims - For victims of Escobar's crimes, seeing his face celebrated on apparel can reopen old wounds. Many see the hoodies as glamorizing trauma.
• Commodification - Some argue that turning Escobar into a fashion symbol commodifies pain and injustice, making light of it.
• Appropriation - Using imagery like the Virgen de los Sicarios for fashion could be seen as cultural appropriation of Colombian culture by outsiders.

Debate continues around whether wearing and producing narcos hoodies is appropriate or acceptable given the complex legacy of Pablo Escobar.

The Market for Narcos Hoodies

While controversial, narcos hoodies have undoubtedly become popular items in certain markets and style subcultures. Here is an overview of who is buying and wearing narcos hoodies:

• Fans of the show - Narcos hoodies let fans show their appreciation for the series and feel connected to it.
• Streetwear enthusiasts - For many into streetwear, narcos hoodies offer edgy, urban styling.
• Hip hop culture followers - Figures like Escobar hold weight in hip hop, making his image popular.
• Pop culture rebels - Those who like counterculture imagery are drawn to the hoodies.
• Youth and students - Young people often drive trends like narcos hoodies through social media and influencers.
• Latinx communities - Some Latinx consumers buy narcos apparel to engage with cultural history.

However, narcos hoodies remain contentious. Major retailers avoid selling them, but smaller brands tap into demand. Most customers are young people looking for bold streetwear style.

Where People Buy Narcos Hoodies

Since mainstream retailers generally avoid narcos merchandise, smaller brands sell these hoodies through specialty channels, like:

• Online streetwear stores - Small ecommerce sites sell various narcos hoodies.
• Etsy - You can find handmade narcos hoodies from independent sellers.
• Redbubble - Fan artists upload narcos hoodie designs for print-on-demand.
• Instagram shops - Sellers promote narcos hoodies through Instagram ads and influencers.
• Music festivals - You may find underground brands selling narcos hoodies at events.
• Urban fashion shops - Some local urban streetwear boutiques offer narcos apparel.

However, availability remains inconsistent due to legal risks and restrictions around this kind of merchandise.

The Future of Narcos Hoodies

Looking ahead, here are some possible directions for narcos hoodies:

• Continued niche popularity - A small but enthusiastic fanbase will likely keep buying narcos hoodies.
• New designs - Sellers will innovate new hoodie graphics to keep up with trends.
• More mainstream awareness - Ethical concerns may limit mass production, but interest could grow.
• New distribution models - Print-on-demand services enable wider access without major financial risk.
• New shows and characters - Future shows about cartels could inspire new merchandising potential.
• Subcultural staple - Narcos hoodies will remain a go-to for certain urban fashion niches.

While mainstream success seems unlikely, the narcos hoodie has certainly carved out a unique place in streetwear culture. Savvy brands could find ways to tap into the trend if they navigate ethical concerns thoughtfully. But for now, these hoodies remain limited to a narrow if passionate group of fans of both the series and its aesthetics.

FAQs

Why have narcos hoodies become popular?

Narcos hoodies have gained popularity due to the success of the Netflix series Narcos, fascination with Pablo Escobar's infamous image, the streetwear aesthetic, and pop culture irony/rebellion.

Who is buying and wearing narcos hoodies?

The main consumers of narcos hoodies include fans of the show, streetwear enthusiasts, hip hop culture followers, pop culture rebels, youth and students, and some Latinx communities.

Where can I buy a narcos hoodie?

Since major retailers avoid them, narcos hoodies are sold through specialty online stores, Etsy, Redbubble, Instagram shops, music festivals, and some local urban boutiques.

Why are narcos hoodies controversial?

Criticisms argue narcos hoodies glorify criminality and trauma, commodify pain, appropriate culture, and are hurtful to victims of cartel violence.

What is the future of narcos hoodies?

Narcos hoodies may remain a small niche trend driven by dedicated fans. New designs, distribution models, shows, and brands could expand their popularity if ethical concerns are addressed.